Comfort, safety, elegance, efficiency – the new GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz claims leadership qualities in all key SUV categories, making it "the S-Class among cross-country vehicles". In parallel with its market launch, Mercedes-Benz Accessories is presenting first-class accessories. The major highlights of the extensive range are provided below.

POWERFUL DYNAMICS: Striking add-on parts and attractive wheels

The off-roader's imposing styling is emphasised by running boards with LED lighting and rugged stainless-steel inlays for easy entry and exit, as well as fin attachments for the air intakes on the bonnet. The six-part set is made of galvanised high-gloss chrome-plated synthetic material and can be mounted easily and securely. High-gloss chrome-plated door handle recesses add a further visual touch.

The sportiness of the SUV is highlighted by styling components from the high-performance brand AMG. Available for the new GL-Class are, among other things: AMG front and rear aprons, stainless-steel door pins and AMG sill panels, the panels available in illuminated white and without illumination.

The range of 18, 19, and 20" alloy rims is extensive. The genuine accessories range from Mercedes-Benz features new products such as distinctive high-sheen 10-spoked wheels for 275/50 R 20 tyres in Himalaya grey.

Front and rear mud flaps protect against dirt and scratches on the side areas, at the rear and on the underbody. Matched to the vehicle contour, the genuine accessory products retain the sporty appearance of the new GL.

ENTERTAINED AND ALWAYS UP-TO-DATE: Advanced multimedia solutions

In tandem with Daimler's Digital DriveStyle app, the Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone enables seamless integration of the iPhone into the GL. Among thers, the highlights include the advanced navigation solution from Garmin, Google online Point Of Interest searches with Street View and 3D maps. Further functions include Facebook, Twitter, internet radio, AUPEO! personal radio and Glympse, the real-time location sharing app. Glympse provides a way to share your current location with selected individuals. The Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone 4/4S will be available in the first quarter of 2013.

With the iPad Rear Integration Plus docking station, the Apple iPad, iPad 2 and iPad 3 tablet PC models can be accommodated safely and ergonomically with all the usual functions in the vehicle's rear compartment. All jacks and ports (such as for the headphones) remain accessible. The docking station can be tilted 90 degrees. In addition, the iPad battery can be charged via a USB port.

Alternatively, a portable iPad Rear Integration unit is available. This unit is also suitable for the iPad, iPad 2 and iPad 3 and simply attaches to the head-restraint pillar. It can be removed at any time.

First-class entertainment in the second row is also made possible with the Rear Entertainment System, which is available as a portable kit or permanently installed. The portable kit includes two 18cm displays with an integrated DVD player with docking station, as well as two infra-red headsets and an infra-red remote control.

The Becker MAP PILOT provides an inexpensive navigation solution for Audio 20 CD. Advantages include integrated control via the central control element, voice output via the vehicle loudspeakers and display on the Audio 20 screen, discreet fitting in the glove box and update and add-on capability via an internet portal.

The new Mercedes-Benz phone module with Bluetooth also combines a number of multimedia functions. The telephone module with integrated UMTS module and direct connection to the vehicle antenna provides a fast, stable and secure connection of COMAND Online with the internet. What's more, Mercedes-Benz apps can also be used at the same time as the telephone, for example. The driver can even have text messages read aloud to them.

Of course, in terms of telematics, the accessories range also includes a variety of cradles for popular mobile phones from Apple, RIM and Nokia.

FOR THE ROOF AND TRAILER TOW HITCH: Practical transport solutions

With the Alustyle Easy-Fix II basic carrier bars for rails, a particularly user-friendly basic carrier bar is available for the Mercedes GL. The carrier bars can be fitted to the roof in just a few steps which can easily be carried out by anyone, without special tools, namely: pre-tension until you hear a click and then tighten using the fastening lever.

The basic carrier bars can also be combined with bicycle racks or ski and snowboard racks, as well as genuine roof boxes. The models with a capacity of 330, 400 and 450 litres can be opened from both sides and can be complemented with practical luggage sets. A further plus: the box's three-latch locking system provides effective protection against theft.

Alternatively a rear-mounted bicycle rack for the trailer tow hitch is available and can be used to transport two or three bicycles. The rear-mounted bicycle rack can be locked and folded to a compact size when not in use.

Order in the load compartment is ensured by practical transport solutions such as a luggage net, a boot tub (high/low versions), and a special plug-in module. These allow the boot to be partitioned in a number of ways and prevent loads from moving around. The telescopic rods for the plug-in module are secured with floor clips along the outer edges of the cargo floor.

Check with your local Mercedes-Benz dealer which of the above accessories are available in your area.

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